Cephas Yakubu Emerges as Symbol of Governor Okpebholo’s Youth-Inclusive Governance

The impeachment of the former Executive Chairman and Vice Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Council over allegations of gross misconduct has marked a turning point in the council’s political history, ushering in a new phase of leadership anchored on youth, competence and service delivery. Out of the constitutional process emerged Rt. Hon. (Amb.) Cephas […]

The impeachment of the former Executive Chairman and Vice Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Council over allegations of gross misconduct has marked a turning point in the council’s political history, ushering in a new phase of leadership anchored on youth, competence and service delivery.

Out of the constitutional process emerged Rt. Hon. (Amb.) Cephas Yakubu, who was sworn in as Acting Chairman in January 2025, signalling what observers describe as a practical demonstration of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to youth inclusiveness under the SHINE Agenda.

In a statement signed by Elias Inaede, immediate past APC publicity secretary of Etsako Central Local Government Area, Yakubu—described as the youngest local government council chairman in Edo State and Nigeria—has justified the confidence reposed in him through purposeful and people-oriented leadership.

“His emergence has brought renewed hope and joy to the people of Etsako Central Local Government Area,” the statement said.

Born on September 5, 1995, in Anegbette town, South Uneme Clan, Yakubu’s rise in public service is rooted in a strong educational and professional background. He attended Imiava Primary School and Anegbette Secondary School before graduating with a B.Sc. in Public Administration from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, in 2019.

He later gained managerial and human resource experience with Dynamic Construction Company and served as a hotel manager in Lagos before venturing into politics.

Yakubu was elected councillor representing Ward 9 and was unanimously chosen as leader of the Etsako Central Legislative Arm, a position his supporters say he used to foster unity, effective leadership and consensus among colleagues.

Since assuming office as Acting Chairman, Yakubu has prioritised unity across communities while delivering tangible grassroots development. His administration has recorded achievements including the construction of a six-classroom block, 30 open market stalls, the installation of an industrial power borehole, and the reconstruction of the council abattoir.

In the health sector, the council has gained recognition as the best local government area in HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention, reflecting what the statement described as his administration’s commitment to public health and wellbeing.

Yakubu has also been praised for his worker-friendly policies, including prompt payment of salaries and arrears, as well as efforts to promote security, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among residents.